erucism (caterpillar dermatitis)

Etiology

• envenomation by catepillars of moths or butterflies (order Lepidoptera)

Epidemiology

• multiple venomous species of catepillars in the U.S. & throughout the world
  • most are found in temperate & tropical climates

Clinical manifestations

• rash is most common manifestation

Complications

• allergic conjunctivitis or bronchospasm may occur if airborne hairs from a caterpillar contact a person's eyes or are inhaled
• reports of anaphylaxis

Management

• antihistamines
• topical glucocorticoids

More general terms

• dermatitis
• envenomation